CDX2 v Hi-cap v F-cap.

Posted by: Colin Ackerman on 27 June 2003

Hi
What combination would sound the best

CD5/F-cap/202/200.

CD5/202/Hi-cap/200.

CDX2/202/200.

As I have a TT as my main source I feel the CD5/202/Hi-cap/200 tobe the best. Has anybody tried these combinations. At present my system is Alphason Sonata/FMJ-CD23/202/200/Ruark Preludes. I feel that upgrading the pre amp is the way to go rather than CD upgrade, all comments wellcome.

Posted on: 27 June 2003 by Bob Edwards

Colin--

I think you've answered your own question. Since vinyl is your main source, I'd go with the CD5/202/Hicap/200 since your Alphason will greatly benefit from the Hicap.

And definitely get the NAPSC--it improves things all out of proportion to its cost.

Best,

Bob

Posted on: 28 June 2003 by Colin Ackerman

Hi Bob and Graham,

I agree fitting a NAPSC is my first upgrade, my main reason for asking the question is really down to VFM.
If I sell my FMJ CD23 I would get 70% of the new price of a CD5 (after dem of both), a CDX2 will cost a lot more than a Hi-cap on the 202.
I remember reading a great post by Ron Toolsie when he tested a lot of gear trying to answer the same question. His conclusions were.....

" The CD5 is an amazingly good player even self powered. It is quite capable of fronting a pseudomullet system composed of far higher spec'd electronics. If it was the choice between a CD5 and CDX2, or adding a Hicap to an Nap, then the latter would have to prevail."

If this Is true will a Hicaped 202 be better than a Flatcap 2 powering both CD5 and 202.

Colin.